Gastrointestinal Quality Of Life Research Articles

Bowel health, defecation patterns and nutrient intake following adoption of a vegan diet: a randomized-controlled trial

Background The beneficial effects of a plant-based diet on gut microbiota diversity are well documented, however, its impact on clinical bowel health and defecation patterns are less well understood. Vegetarian diets have been associated with a higher bowel movement (BM) frequency as well as softer stools in cross-sectional studies. The effects of the de-novo adoption of a vegan diet on bowel health, however, have never been investigated in a randomized-controlled trial. Materials and Methods The present study examined bowel health and defecation patterns in relation to diet and nutrient intake in a young and healthy sample of n = 65 physically-active German university students who were randomly assigned to either a vegan or a meat-rich diet for eight weeks. Bowel health assessment included the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI) and the Cleveland Clinic Fecal Incontinence Score (CCFIS). Nutrient intake was assessed using weighed food diaries. The study was prospectively registered at the German Clinical Trial Register (DRKS00031541). Results Weekly BM frequency slightly increased in vegans, whereas it remained unaltered in participants assigned to a meat-rich diet. Fiber intake increased significantly in vegans (34.89 (18.46) g/d) whereas it decreased in those assigned to the meat-rich group (22.79 (12.5) g/d). No significant intergroup differences in BSFS and CCFIS patterns were observed. Adoption of a vegan diet neither resulted in a transient increase in abdominal discomfort nor in a decreased gastrointestinal quality of life, which was comparable across the diet groups. Conclusions The short-term de-novo adoption of a vegan diet did not negatively affect markers of bowel health in this study.

Comparison of Quality Of Life Before and After Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is a treatment of choice for symptomatic cholelithiasis. LC is one of the most commonly done operations in our country. Patient-reported quality of life is an important outcome measure following all medical and surgical interventions. However, there are only a few papers available addressing quality of life-issues following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Hence, we conducted a study to compare the quality of life to compare before and after LC. Methods: This is a longitudinal study. Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the study period were included. Gastrointestinal quality of life (GIQLI) was measured before and six months after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Result: Seventy-two patients, 11 (15.28 %) males and 61 (84.72 %) females were included in the study. The mean age was 44.97 years and the mean duration of symptoms was found to be 5.20 months. No complications were recorded. There was a statistical increase in the mean total GIQLI before and after LC (111.625 Vs 133, p < 0.0001). Conclusion: There was a significant increase in GIQLI after laparoscopic cholecystectomy in symptomatic patients.

The Role of Guar Fiber in Improving the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Functional Constipation, and Functional Diarrhea

Background and Aims Guar fiber is a soluble fiber that has been used for symptom management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional constipation (FC), and functional diarrhea (FD). However, the effect of guar fiber supplementation on symptom management is currently unclear. The aim of this review is to determine the effect of guar fiber supplementation compared with any other nutrition intervention on gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms with individuals diagnosed with IBS, FC, and FD. A secondary aim is to determine the dosage of guar fiber supplementation required to elicit an improvement in associated symptoms. Methods A systematic review (CRD42022374730) was performed with literature from inception. PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched on October 28, 2022, to identify eligible studies which reported guar fiber supplementation in patients diagnosed with IBS, FC, and/or FD using the Rome criterion. Findings were synthesized narratively. Study quality was assessed using the Johanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tools. Results Nine articles reported on stool consistency, defecation frequency, laxative use, bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, and quality of life (QOL). All pre-post studies (n = 5) reported statistically significant improvements for GI symptoms and QOL. Two of 4 randomized controlled trial studies reported improvements in GI symptoms when supplemented daily with 5 to 6 g of guar fiber for 4 to 12 weeks. Conclusions Our study shows that guar fiber supplementation appears effective in improving symptom management of IBS and FC with a 5-g/d dosage most used. Future studies are required to more clearly understand the benefits of guar fiber supplementation and elucidate dosing strategies. This review provides the grounds for further well-designed studies to investigate the impact of guar fiber supplementation in populations with IBS, FC, and FD.

Gastric emptying and myoelectrical activity testing in children with esophageal atresia: A pilot study.

Abnormalities of gastric function in children with esophageal atresia (EA) could potentially contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms and reduced quality of life (QOL). Therefore, we aimed to determine the feasibility and clinical usefulness of gastric function testing in children with EA. The validated PedsQL Gastrointestinal Symptoms Questionnaire (PedsQL-GI) was completed to assess gastrointestinal symptoms and symptom-related QOL. Gastric emptying and gastric myoelectrical activity were studied using 13C-gastric emptying octanoic acid breath test (13C-GEBT) and surface electrogastrography (EGG). Correlations between 13C-GEBT and EGG parameters and PedsQL-GI scores were investigated. Fifteen patients (four males) were included (median age: 6 [3.0-8.5] years). Mean PedsQL-GI scores as reported by the children were comparable to the healthy population. However, parents reported a diminished QOL. Gastric function tests (gastric emptying and/or surface EGG) showed abnormalities in 12 patients (80%). Patients with abnormal slow waves showed abnormal gastric emptying coefficientmore often. There was no significant association between 13C-GEBT nor EGG results and PedsQL-GI scores. 13C-GEBT and EGG can be used to evaluate gastric function in patients with EA. Abnormal gastric function tests were present in 80% of our cohort. However, abnormal gastric function did not significantly correlate with reported gastrointestinal symptom-related QOL.

Global status of research on gastrointestinal cancer patients’ quality of life: A bibliometric and visual analysis from 2003 to 2023

ObjectiveTo analyze the current research status, hotspots, and frontiers in the field of Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer and quality of life (QoL) through the bibliometrics method, and to provide references and guidance for future research. MethodsLiterature related to GI cancer and QoL from April 1, 2003 to March 31, 2023 was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace 6.2.R1 was performed for collaboration analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis, and document co-citation analysis. ResultsA total of 1224 publications were included in this study. There has been a significant increase in the number of publications in this field over the past two decades. The United States, the Karolinska Institute and the University of Amsterdam, and Pernilla Lagergren are the most prolific country, institution, and author, respectively. The links between most of the research constituents were relatively thin (centrality <0.1). The keyword analysis indicates that the benefits of physical activity on QoL, the levels of psychological distress and its relationship with QoL, as well as the development and validation of QoL measurement tools have been the research hotspots. Open-label/double-blind trials exploring therapeutic interventions and more targeted new drugs or more effective drug combinations, and longitudinal studies determining the direction of the association between psychological distress and QoL at different time points, may be emerging trends in this field. ConclusionThe cooperation among countries, institutions, and authors in this field should be strengthened. In addition, the health benefits of light physical activity, interventions for QoL, trajectory and direction of the relationship between psychological distress and QoL may be the focus of future research.

Long-term motor activity, cardiopulmonary performance and quality of life in abdominal wall defect patients

AimTo assess whether patients born with an abdominal wall defect (AWD) have impaired cardiorespiratory performance capacity, motor skills, core stability or quality of life in a long-term follow up.MethodsPatients diagnosed with AWD between 2002 and 2013 were invited to participate in the study, which included clinical examination, spirometry, cardiopulmonary exercise performance testing, assessment of motor activity, ultrasound, electromyography of the abdominal wall and assessment of the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). The results were compared to a healthy control group matched for age, sex, BMI, and physical activity levels.ResultsIn total, 18 AWD patients (mean age 12.6 ± 3.5 years) were included and there were no significant differences in anthopometric data compared to the control group (n = 18). AWD patients had a significantly lower GIQLI score (AWD mean 137.2 ± 6.8 vs. control mean 141.4 ± 4.9; p = 0.038) and were affected by decreased motor abilities with significantly higher Dordel-Koch-Test values (AWD median 3.54/IQR 1 vs. control median 2.8/IQR 1; p = 0.005).ConclusionFollow-up examinations of AWD patients revealed decreased motor abilities and GIQLI scores while cardiopulmonary function was not different compared to healthy controls. The clinical impact of these findings remains to be elucidated.ImpactClinical examination, assessment of the gastrointestinal quality of life, sport medical testing, electromyography and abdominal wall ultrasound were performed in patients with congenital abdominal wall defect and compared to an age and sex matched healthy control group.Results of spirometry and spiroergometry, ultrasound or electromyography did not significantly differ between the groups.Significantly decreased locomotor function and gastrointestinal quality of life were found in patients with abdominal wall defect. However, the clinical impact of these findings remains to be elucidated.

Prospective Validation of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms as Predictors of Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary, and Sexual Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer.

Radiotherapy (RT) for localized prostate cancer (PC) can adversely impact gastrointestinal (GI), genitourinary (GU), and sexual quality of life (QoL). Biomarkers are needed to accurately predict individualized risk of toxicity and enable tailoring of therapy. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported as potential predictors of RT-related toxicities, but have not been associated with patient-report outcomes (PRO) in prospective cohorts. In this study, we sought to validate these SNPs in a prospective registry study of RT for PC, with high-quality prospectively collected PRO data. Men with low/intermediate risk PC were consented to a multicenter companion registry study associated with the PARTIQoL Phase III Randomized Trial of proton vs. photon RT. Patients received RT to prostate/seminal vesicles per protocol. Androgen deprivation therapy and pelvic lymph node RT were not allowed. 95 patients enrolled between 2014-2020 at a single institution had blood specimens available for germline DNA analysis. 172 SNPs previously reported to correlate with GI, GU, and/or sexual RT toxicities were genotyped. PRO data through the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) were collected prior to RT and at prespecified follow-up (FU) time points. Change of the EPIC score from baseline was compared between genotypes of previously identified SNPs using a two-sample t-test. Significant clinically meaningful QoL differences were identified by an effect size of at least 0.4σ with two-sided p<0.05, where σ represents the standard deviation of the score change. Median FU was 39 months (r, 6-89). Median age was 68 years (r, 52-83). Features at diagnosis include: 77% T1c, median PSA 5.8 (r, 1.43-15.1), 53% Gleason 7, median prostate volume 45.5cc (r, 16-142). 43% received proton RT; 53% had a rectal spacer. 40% received 79.2 Gy/44 fractions; 60% received 70 Gy/28 fractions. Between 6 to 24 months post-RT, there were 19 SNPs that were significantly associated with clinically meaningful decreases in GI QoL scores, 19 that were significantly associated with clinically meaningful decreases in GU QoL scores, and 10 SNPs that were significantly associated with clinically meaningful decreases in sexual QoL scores. Three BRCA2 SNPs (rs1801439, rs1801499, rs1799944) were significantly associated with clinically meaningful decreases in both GI and GU QoL scores. Of the 172 SNPs previously reported to be associated with GI, GU, and/or sexual toxicity after prostate RT, 23% were validated for domain-specific QoL detriment. Ongoing analyses include integrated modeling of dosimetry and SNP data for prediction of toxicities and PRO, and evaluation of potential interactions between RT modality (proton/photon) and QoL-associated SNPs.

Toxicity and Patient Reported Quality of Life after PSMA-PET and mpMRT-Based Focal Dose Escalated Definitive Radiotherapy in Prostate Cancer Patients: 2-Year Follow-Up of the HypoFocal Phase II Trial

The prospective, 2-armed non-randomized HypoFocal phase II trial investigates the safety and feasibility of focal dose escalated external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) for prostate cancer (PCa) patients based on PSMA-PET and multiparametric MRI. This approach improves tumor coverage and thus putatively treatment effectiveness but leads to larger boost volumes. Here we present toxicity and patient reported quality of life (QoL) results after 2 years follow-up (FU) MATERIALS/METHODS: Patients with intermediate- or high-risk PCa and cN0/cM0 stage were included. Patients in arm A received 60 Gy in 20 fractions to the prostate with an integrated boost of up to 75 Gy. Patients in arm B received one session HDR-BT with 15 Gy to the prostate and a boost of up to 19 Gy, followed by EBRT of 44 Gy in 20 fractions. Boost volumes were defined by PSMA-PET and mpMRI based on validated approaches. Genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity (CTCAE v5.0) and QoL with IPSS and EORTC questionnaires (QLQ30 and PR25) were assessed. Fifty patients were treated in both arms in two centers (Freiburg and Berlin). Table 1 shows patients characteristics. In arm, A grade 2 GU and GI toxicity rates after 2 years were 8% and 4%. There were no grade 3 GU toxicities. Two patients experienced grade 3 GI toxicities due to multifactorial causes. In Arm B grade 2 GU and GI toxicity rates after 2 years were 17% and 0%. No grade 3 toxicities were observed in arm B. Toxicities were not statistically significantly different between baseline and 2y FU (p>0.055). QoL analysis was performed with patients with available questionnaires at baseline and 2y FU (12-15 in Arm A and 13-15 in Arm B). Only bowel function (p = 0.0005, median 4 vs 25 points) in Arm A and sexual- (p = 0.016, median 25 vs 50 points) and bowel function (p = 0.004, median 0 vs 8 points) and dyspnea (p = 0.031, median 0 vs 0 points) in Arm B decreased significantly after 2 year FU. Other QoL items were not significantly different. Bowel symptoms were significantly worse in Arm A compared to Arm B (p = 0.003). Median PSA values after 2 years were 0.23 ng/ml in Arm A and 0.33 ng/ml in Arm B. Despite large boost volumes, the 2 years FU of the HypoFocal-Phase II trials shows no significantly increased GU and GU toxicities compared to baseline symptoms. Patients reported about a good QoL but increased bowel symptoms after 2 years, particularly if treated with EBRT only. Implementation of PSMA-PET into focal dose escalated radiotherapy approaches appears safe and feasible. However, radioproctitis demands careful management. The current PSA values suggest a highly effective therapy, but longer FU is needed to evaluate oncological outcomes. The HypoFocal-SBRT phase III trial will evaluate the PSMA-PET and mpMRI-based focal dose escalated SBRT.

Ketogenic diets in children with intractable epilepsy and its effects on gastrointestinal function, gut microbiome, inflammation, and quality of life.

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a treatment for children with intractable epilepsy (IE), it can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, and have an adverse effect on growth, nutrition and quality of life (QOL). This study investigated the extent of these side-effects by comparing children with IE on KDs to their counterparts on normal diets. Patients with IE were categorised into patients with KD or control groups. Gastrointestinal side effects and QOL were assessed using the PedsQL™ Gastrointestinal Symptoms Module. Cross sectional growth, gut microbiome compositions and inflammation levels were also analysed. Fourteen patients on the KD and 13 control patients were enrolled. Patients had been on KD for a median duration of 15 months (Interquartile range (IQR): 9.8 to 60 months). The patients on the KD reported a trend to lower total gastrointestinal symptoms scores (more symptoms) compared to control patients, at 71.1 and 84.9 respectively (p=0.06, not significant). Patients on the KD had significantly lower QOL scores compared to control patients(p=0.01). Patients on the KD were found to have consistently lower median height/length, weight and Body mass index (BMI) z scores compared to the controls although these were not statistically significant. Patients on the KD had a lower microbial diversity, Both groups had a normal level of S100A12, a marker of gut inflammation. Patients on the KD reported a trend to more gastrointestinal symptoms and more QOL concerns compared to controls. Although microbial differences were noted in patients on the KD, this did not result in detectable gut inflammation.

The Long-COVID autonomic syndrome in hospitalized patients: A one-year prospective cohort study

Long-COVID syndrome is characterized by fatigue, orthostatic intolerance, tachycardia, pain, memory difficulties, and brain fog, which may be associated with autonomic nervous system abnormalities. We aimed to evaluate the short and long-term course of COVID-19 autonomic symptoms and quality of life (QoL) after SARS-CoV-2 infection through a one-year follow-up combined with validated questionnaires. Additionally, we aimed to identify patients with worsening autonomic symptoms at 6 and 12 months by dividing the patient cohort into two sub-groups: the Post-COVID healed Control sub-group (total score<16.4) and the Long-COVID autonomic syndrome sub-group (total score>16.4). This prospective cohort studied 112 SARS-CoV-2 positive patients discharged from Humanitas Research Hospital between January and March 2021. Autonomic symptoms and QoL were assessed using the composite autonomic symptom scale 31 (COMPASS-31) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaires at various time points: before SARS-CoV-2 infection (PRE), at hospital discharge (T0), and at 1 (T1), 3 (T3), 6 (T6), and 12 (T12) months of follow-up. COMPASS-31 total score, Orthostatic Intolerance and Gastrointestinal function indices, QoL, physical functioning, pain, and fatigue scores worsened at T0 compared to PRE but progressively improved at T1 and T3, reflecting the acute phase of COVID-19. Unexpectedly, these indices worsened at T6 and T12 compared to T3. Subgroup analysis revealed that 47% of patients experienced worsening autonomic symptoms at T6 and T12, indicating Long-COVID autonomic syndrome. Early rehabilitative and pharmacological therapy is recommended for patients at the T1 and T3 stages after SARS-CoV-2 infection to minimize the risk of developing long-term autonomic syndrome.

454. GASTROINTESTINAL QUALITY OF LIFE, BODY COMPOSITION AND INFLUENCING FACTORS, IN ESOPHAGEAL CANCER SURVIVORS FOLLOWING CURATIVE ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background Recent improvements in treatment modalities for locally advanced esophageal cancer have resulted in markedly improved survival outcomes. This has resulted in an increasing population of esophageal cancer survivors. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment, which has a high risk of post-operative morbidity. This study focused on characterising health-related quality of life with a specific interest in the gastrointestinal quality of life of esophageal cancer survivors following curative esophagectomy. Methods This was a cross-sectional cohort study of patients who underwent oesophageal cancer surgery between 2010 and 2015. A multicomponent questionnaire was distributed to disease-free patients at least one year post completion of treatment. Body composition was assessed using surveillance computed tomography scans. Linear and logistic regression analyses were utilised to determine the impact of treatment and pathologic variables on survivorship issues. Results Gastrointestinal symptoms were common, with persistent eating symptoms independently predictive of overall poor HR-QL on multivariable analysis (P = 0.026, odds ratio [OR] 1.05 [95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.01–1.10]). Persistent eating symptoms were independently associated with impaired physical and role function (both P &amp;lt; 0.001). Cervical anastomosis was associated with increased risk of dumping syndrome (P = 0.013, OR 0.34 [95% CI 0.14–0.80]), while squamous histology was independently associated with increased Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (P = 0.027) and Sigstad dumping syndrome scores (P = 0.034). Conclusion Persistent gastrointestinal and nutritional issues are common after esophagectomy. These eating symptoms are associated with impaired health-related quality of life. Further research is warranted to investigate how patient pathways can be enhanced to minimise the long-term impact of curative treatment for patients with esophageal cancer.

Gastrointestinal quality of life and bowel function in adults born with anorectal malformation and hirschsprung disease.

To assess the quality of life and disease-specific functioning of adults with anorectal malformations (ARM) or Hirschsprung disease (HD) compared to healthy reference scores. Patients with the diagnosis of ARM or HD from the Adult Colorectal Research Registry completed the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36), the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQoLI), and the Bowel Function Score (BFS) between October 2019 and August 2022. One-sample Wilcoxon test compared the results to reported healthy references with a significance level of < 0.05. The response rate was 67%. All three surveys were completed by 133 adults with a slight preponderance of males (51%). Median age was 31years, 117 were born with ARM and 16 with HD. All subgroups had significantly lower BFS than healthy references. ARM patients scored significantly lower than the healthy reference population when assessed for GIQoL. All showed significant impairment with the mental component summary (MCS) of SF-36. Patients with a successful bowel management had significantly higher scores on all three questionnaires than those with fecal accidents. Our results emphasize the importance of a successful bowel management and its impact on the quality of life and bowel function. Long-term follow-up is recommended with attention to mental health.

To Boost or Not to Boost: Pooled Analyses From 2-Fraction SABR Trials for Localized Prostate Cancer

Focal boost to dominant intraprostatic lesion (DIL) is an approach for dose escalation in prostate radiation therapy. In this study, we aimed to report the outcomes of 2-fraction SABR ± DIL boost. We included 60 patients with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer enrolled in 2 phase 2 trials (30 patients in each trial). In the 2STAR trial (NCT02031328), 26 Gy (equivalent dose in 2-Gy fractions=105.4 Gy) was delivered to the prostate. In the 2SMART trial (NCT03588819), 26 Gy was delivered to the prostate, with up to 32 Gy boost to magnetic resonance imaging-defined DIL (equivalent dose in 2-Gy fractions=156.4 Gy). The reported outcomes included prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response (ie, <0.4 ng/mL) at 4 years (4yrPSARR), biochemical failure (BF), acute and late toxicities, and quality of life (QOL). In 2SMART, median DIL D99% of 32.3 Gy was delivered. Median follow-up was 72.7 months (range, 69.1-75.) in 2STAR and 43.6 months (range, 38.7-49.5) in 2SMART. The 4yrPSARR was 57% (17/30) in 2STAR and 63% (15/24) in 2SMART (P=0.7). The 4-year cumulative BF was 0% in 2STAR and 8.3% in 2SMART (P=0.1). The 6-year BF in 2STAR was 3.5%. For genitourinary toxicities, there were differences in grade ≥1 urinary urgency in the acute (0% vs 47%; P < .001) and late settings (10% vs 67%; P < .001) favoring 2STAR. For urinary QOL, no difference was observed in the acute setting, but lower proportion in 2STAR had minimal clinically important changes in urinary QOL score in the late setting (21% vs 50%; P=.03). There were no significant differences in gastrointestinal and sexual toxicities and QOL in both acute and late settings between the 2 trials. This study presents the first prospective data comparing 2-fraction prostate SABR ± DIL boost. The addition of DIL boost resulted in similar medium-term efficacy (in 4yrPSARR and BF), with impact on late urinary QOL outcomes.

Postoperative outcomes for sleeve gastrectomy patients with positive pH-defined GERD.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a possible side effect of sleeve gastrectomy (SG). However, procedure selection for patients with GERD and risk factors for morbidity after bypass surgeries is complex. For patients with a preoperative GERD diagnosis, literature related to worsening postoperative symptoms is discordant. This study evaluated the effects of SG on patients with pre-operative GERD confirmed through pH testing. University Hospital, United States. This was a single-center case-series. SG patients with preoperative pH testing were compared based on DeMeester scoring. Preoperative demographics, endoscopy results, need for conversion surgery, and changes in gastrointestinal quality of life (GIQLI) scores were compared. Two-sample independent t-tests assuming unequal variances were used for statistical analysis. Twenty SG patients had preoperative pH testing. Nine patients were GERD positive; median DeMeester score 26.7 (22.1-31.15). Eleven patients were GERD negative, with a median DeMeester score of 9.0 (4.5-13.1). The two groups had similar median BMI, preoperative endoscopic findings and use of GERD medications. Concurrent hiatal hernia repair was performed in 22% of GERD positive vs. 36% of GERD negative patients, (p = 0.512). Two patients in the GERD positive cohort required conversion to gastric bypass (22%), while none in the GERD negative cohort did. No significant postoperative differences were noted in GIQLI, heartburn, or regurgitation symptoms. Objective pH testing may allow the differentiation of patients who would be higher risk for need for conversion to gastric bypass. For patients with mild symptoms, but negative pH testing, SG may represent a durable option.

The impact of Hafnia alvei HA4597™ on weight loss and glycaemic control after bariatric surgery — study protocol for a triple-blinded, blocked randomized, 12-month, parallel-group, placebo-controlled clinical trial

BackgroundSubjects with obesity exhibit changes in gut microbiota composition and function (i.e. dysbiosis) that contribute to metabolic dysfunction, including appetite impairment. Although bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity with a great impact on weight loss, some subjects show weight regain due to increased energy intake after the surgery. This surgery involves gut microbiota changes that promote appetite control, but it seems insufficient to completely restore the obesity-associated dysbiosis — a possible contributor for weight regain. Thus, modulating gut microbiota with probiotics that could improve appetite regulation as a complementary approach to post-operative diet (i.e. Hafnia alvei HA4597™), may accentuate post-surgery weight loss and insulin sensitivity.MethodsThis is a protocol of a triple-blinded, blocked-randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled clinical trial designed to determine the effect of Hafnia alvei HA4597™ supplementation on weight loss and glycaemic control 1 year after bariatric surgery. Patients of Hospital CUF Tejo, Lisbon, that undergo Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are invited to participate in this study. Men and women between 18 and 65 years old, with a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 and at least one severe obesity-related comorbidity, or with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2, and who are willing to take 2 capsules of Hafnia alvei HA4597™ probiotic supplements (equivalent to 5 × 107 CFU) vs. placebo per day for 90 days are included in this study. Assessments are carried out at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after the surgery. Loss of weight in excess and glycated haemoglobin are considered primary outcomes. In addition, changes in other metabolic and inflammatory outcomes, gut microbiota composition and metabolites, as well as gastrointestinal quality of life are also being assessed during the trial.DiscussionThe evidence obtained in this study will provide relevant information regarding the profile of the intestinal microbiota of individuals with severe obesity and the identification of the risk/benefit ratio of the use of Hafnia alvei HA4597™ as an adjunctive treatment in the maintenance of metabolic and weight control one year after the surgical intervention.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05170867. Registered on 28 December 2021.

Effectiveness of the Rehabilitation Program after Colorectal Surgery for Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Quasi-Experimental Study

An effective rehabilitation program is essential for patients having surgery to regain full physical functions and improve their quality of life. This quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program on functional recovery and gastrointestinal quality of life among people with colorectal cancer undergoing surgery. This program was developed using integrated concepts from the Symptom Management Model and Self-Regulation Theory and involved nurse-patient co-operation. Sixty-four participants undergoing colorectal cancer surgery admitted at three tertiary hospitals in Bangkok, Thailand, were recruited into the experimental (n = 32) or control group (n = 32). The experimental group received the Rehabilitation Program after Colorectal Surgery in addition to usual care. The control group received only usual care. The instruments used for data collection were a demographic data record, a Pain Rating Scale, the Abdominal Distension Assessment Scale, the Gastrointestinal Function and Eating Record Form, a Six-Minute Walk Test, a digital spirometer for forced vital capacity, and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index. The outcomes were measured before starting the program, on postoperative days 1 and 3, and two weeks after discharge. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, paired t-test, independent t-test, and repeated measures ANOVA.Results showed that the experimental group had significantly less pain severity and higher functional walking capacity than the control group. For the gastrointestinal quality of life, the experimental group achieved significantly better results in the symptom and physical function domains two weeks after discharge. In conclusion, the Rehabilitation Program after Colorectal Surgery could control symptoms, promote postoperative activities, and enhance recovery and some gastrointestinal quality of life domains. Nurses can use this program to increase functional ability and improve the quality of life among people with colorectal cancer receiving surgery. However, further testing using randomized controlled trials is needed before it can be widely used in practice.

Laparoscopic total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis and subtotal colectomy with antiperistaltic cecorectal anastomosis for slow transit constipation.

To investigate the clinical efficacy of laparoscopic total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (TC-IRA) and laparoscopic subtotal colectomy with antiperistaltic cecorectal anastomosis (SC-ACRA) on adults with slow transit constipation (STC). One hundred and three patients with STC were assigned to the TC-IRA group (n = 53) and the SC-ACRA group (n = 50). The clinical data were analyzed. The surgery was successful in all patients (100%). Significantly (P = 0.03) more patients took anti-laxatives during hospitalization in the TC-IRA than the SC-ACRA group (39.62% vs. 20.00%). Abdominal pain and distension was present in 33.96% and 32.00% patients in the TC-IRA and SC-ACRA group, respectively, which decreased insignificantly (P > 0.05) to 18.87% and 18.00% 24months after surgery, respectively. The postoperative Wexner and gastrointestinal quality of life (GIQLI) scores were not significantly different (P > 0.05) at all times after surgery in both groups. The defecation frequency decreased in both groups, and the average defecation frequency was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the TC-IRA than the SC-ACRA group (3.91 ± 1.23 vs. 3.14 ± 1.15 times/day) at 3months. Three months after surgery, significantly (P < 0.05) fewer patients were satisfied with defecation frequency in the TC-IRA than the SC-ACRA group (29 vs. 37 patients), whereas the number of patients who were willing to choose the same procedure again was not significantly (P > 0.05) different between the two groups. The WIS score of patients was significantly (P = 0.035) higher in the TC-IRA than the SC-ACRA group (6 vs. 5) 3months later. TC-IRA and SC-ACRA are both safe and effective for adult slow transit constipation, and can significantly improve the quality of life of patients. Even though SC-ACRA has better early defecation frequency, postoperative antidiarrheal application and satisfaction, the long-term follow-up effects are similar.

Propensity score matching analysis of perioperative outcomes including quality of life after multi-port vs. single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a nationwide prospective multicenter study in Korea

Introduction The usefulness of single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SPLC) as compared to multi-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (MPLC) remains controversial. Between SPLC and MPLC, we compared outcomes, especially subjective aspects, such as quality of life (QoL). Material and methods This multi-center study, involving 20 institutions from 2016 to 2017, enrolled 2507 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Various perioperative outcomes, pain assessed by the numeric rating scale (NRS) score, and QoL evaluated by the gastrointestinal QoL index (GIQLI) questionnaire, were compared between the two procedures. We generated balanced groups after propensity score matching (PSM) using preoperative factors that influence the decision to perform MPLC or SPLC. Results MPLC and SPLC were performed in 2176 and 331 patients, respectively. Nine hundred and twelve and 329 patients, respectively, were selected from the two groups by PSM. Operation time was longer and surgical difficulty was lower in SPLC. There were no significant differences in most outcomes, including biliary complications. Significant superiority of SPLC over MPLC was shorter hospitalization, lower NRS score, and favorable GIQLI. Conclusions From nationwide prospective data, SPLC showed outcomes comparable to MPLC. In SPLC, morbidity was not high and postoperative QoL was favorable. In the future, more implementations and studies are needed to ensure the safety and feasibility of SPLC.

Quality of life and low anterior resection syndrome before and after deep endometriosis surgery.

Deep endometriosis (DE) is defined by the presence of ectopic endometrial glands, with rectal involvement ranging from 5.3 to 12%. The prevalence of low anterior resection-like syndrome (LARS) in patients with DE, how it affects quality of life (QoL), and its evolution after surgery is unclear. The objective of this study was to assess the gastrointestinal functional outcomes and QoL in patients who underwent surgery for DE. A prospective study was conducted from 2017 to 2019, recruiting patients who underwent DE surgery with and without rectal resection. Patients completed LARS and SF-36 questionnaires before, at 6months and at 1year after surgery. Eighty-two patients were enrolled. Rectal segmental resection was required in 16 (19.5%) patients, shaving in 16 (19.5%) and discoid resection in 8 (9.8%). All 8 domains of the SF-36 questionnaire showed improvement during follow-up, reflecting improved QoL after surgery (p ≤ 0.05) in all patients. Mean LARS scores for patients without rectal surgery were 7.5 ± 10.4 before and 13.7 ± 14.2 1year after surgery; rectal surgery was 13.6 ± 13.6 and 14.6 ± 13.1, respectively (p = 0.17). No significant differences were found in the rectal surgery patients' postoperative LARS score among the 3 rectal DE surgical techniques (p = 0.97), and the SF-36 scores improved independent of the technique performed. Patients with DE present a LARS-like syndrome before surgery that does not appear to be negatively affected after rectal surgery, independent of the technique performed. Rectal surgery improves the QoL of patients with DE patients as measured by the SF-36 questionnaire at 1year of follow-up.

Gastric Bypass Versus Sleeve Gastrectomy: Comparison of Patient Outcomes, Satisfaction, and Quality of Life in a Single-Center Experience.

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most common primary bariatric operation performed in the United States. Its relative technical ease, combined with a decreased risk for anatomic and malabsorptive complications make LSG an attractive option compared to laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGB) for many patients and surgeons. However, emerging evidence for progressive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after LSG, and the inferior weight loss in many studies, suggests that the enthusiasm for LSG requires reassessment. We hypothesized that patient satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) may be lower after LSG compared to LGB because of these differences. Methods: We distributed a survey querying weight-loss outcomes, complications, foregut symptoms, QoL, and overall satisfaction to patients who underwent bariatric operations at our institution between 2000 and 2020 and who had electronic mail contact information available. Mean follow-up was 2.75 ± 2.41 years for LGB patients and 3.37 ± 2.18 (P = .021) years for LSG patients. We compared these groups for weight-loss outcomes, changes in foregut symptoms, gastrointestinal QoL, postbariatric QoL, and overall satisfaction using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Among 323 respondents, 126 underwent LGB and 197 underwent LSG. LGB patients had larger body mass index (BMI) reduction than LSG patients (-17.16 ± 9.07 kg/m2 versus -14.87 ± 7.4 kg/m2, P = .023). LGB patients reported less reflux (P = .003), with decreased heartburn (P < .0001) and regurgitation (P = .0027). However, a greater proportion of LGB patients reported at least one complication (P = .025). Despite this, more LGB patients reported satisfaction (92.86%) than LSG patients (73.6%). Conclusion: LGB patients are significantly more likely to be satisfied than LSG patients. Factors contributing to the higher level of satisfaction include less GERD and better BMI decrease.